A 60-year-old male presents with difficulty swallowing solid food, which progresses to liquid food
Question : A 60-year-old male presents with difficulty swallowing solid food, which progresses to liquid food. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
B. Esophageal achalasia
C. Esophageal cancer
D. Peptic ulcer disease
Answer: C
Explanation: Progressive dysphagia (starting with solid food, then liquid food) is a typical symptom of esophageal cancer, especially in elderly males with a history of smoking and drinking. GERD is characterized by heartburn and regurgitation; esophageal achalasia has dysphagia for both solid and liquid food at the same time; peptic ulcer disease mainly presents with abdominal pain. Therefore, the correct answer is C.
